Power to a new car era

Call for government backing for electric vehicle incentives

A GEELONG-based company has called for government stimulus of the electric vehicle sector as the curtain closes on the golden era of car-making in Victoria.

AVASS Group CEO Allen Saylav said introducing incentives for the industry could fast-track the uptake of EV use across the state.

“Automotive manufacturing in Australia has seen a large dent with major brands departing her shores,” he said.

“(There) is an opportunity for the (Victorian) Government to provide administrative, regulatory, campaign and purchasing support for its home-based manufacturers.”

AVASS is making 100 per cent electric buses at its Avalon base, with the first vehicles hitting the road earlier this year.

The company was responding to a Victorian Parliamentary inquiry, which is examining the potential bene- fits of a wider rollout of electric vehicles in Victoria.

Committee chair Bernie Finn said the inquiry would consider the suitability of EVs in public transport buses and public sector fleets.

“The potential pros and cons from the widespread uptake of electric vehicles will be looked at, as well as issues around lack of infrastructure for charging electric vehicles and higher costs.”

The Greens have previously called for EVs to be “a major part” of the state’s public transport system, in both metropolitan and regional areas.

The inquiry will also consider government support for manufacturing and assembling EVs, and assisting workers and suppliers affected by major closures in the auto industry.

Ford ended local manufacturing in Geelong last October and Toyota ceased making cars at Altona this week.

However another major player in the Australian market, Hyundai, is bullish about the future of motoring, having developed a comprehensive green vehicle program overseas.

The company intends to import next generation hydrogenpowered cars to Australia next year, and offer alternative drive train vehicles from 2018-19.

In its submission to the inquiry, Hyundai called on the Government to support an expansion of EV-charging infrastructure, and for former auto workers to be given priority in the new jobs.

It also called on the State Government to partner with industry to hasten the growth of the industry, suggesting a government fleet range and refuelling/recharge facilities.

Financial incentives for consumers to adopt EV vehicles, such as cut-price registration and stamp duty, free recharge spots and parking spaces at railway stations, have also been suggested.

Inquiry submissions will be taken until November 1. The committee is expected to table its report by mid-December.